Written By: Bhavyajyoti Chilukoti | Published : October 27, 2015 7:12 PM IST
When it comes to vaccination, most parents have a common doubt -- whether multiple vaccinations can be taken at the same time or not. While most people avoid taking multiple vaccines at the same time, some follow their doctor s recommendation without thinking twice. So if you also had this doubt in mind, our expert Dr Ajay Gambhir, Head Neonatology & Pediatrics, Saroj Hospital & Heart Institute, New Delhi clears all your questions on multiple vaccinations.
1. If multiple vaccines are scheduled at the same time, can you take them all at the same time?
Yes, multiple vaccines can be taken simultaneously but care should be taken to follow the vaccination schedule properly. And if by any chance you miss the vaccination schedule, consult your doctor to know the new schedule. In most cases, vaccines that have been missed can be given later, but a gap of 4 weeks between 2 live vaccines is recommended.
2. Can any of the recommended vaccines be avoided (if scheduled at the same time)?
According to the National Policy, vaccines for tuberculosis, oral polio, Hepatitis B, DPT (Diphtheria, pertusis and typhoid), Haemophilus influenza type B vaccine, BCG, MMR (measles, mumps and rubella) are a must for kids. Here is the list of the vaccinations (from birth till 5 years) that should be administered to children. There are usually no contraindications if these vaccines are taken at the same time as recommended by your doctor. However, you should avoid giving live vaccines to your kids without your doctor s consent. Also, vaccines should not be given to pregnant women, children who are currently on medications like steroids and those who are undergoing treatment for any disease. Here are 4 optional vaccinations that are an absolute necessity for your child.
3. What signs indicate medical emergency after getting vaccinated?
Before getting vaccinated, kids should be examined for any history of allergy or adverse reaction. And if you observe anaphylactic and anaphylactoid reactions like swelling or lowering of blood pressure, it s time to consult your doctor immediately.
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